Triumphrat

markwthunderbird · 04-03-2009, 11:29 PM

I have a 1996 Thunderbird that I am trying to bring back from 6 years in my neighbors garage and I have it running but when it idles it pops and sputters it seems to get better as the rpms go up but I still hear some hesitation. I have removed and completely cleaned the carbs and installed new jets and boots to the motor. While it idles I sprayed water around the intakes and the idle does not change so there is no air leak. It has fresh gas and a new battery. I am not sure if it is a problem with the pick up sensor or the coils maybe, how do I test those to rule them out. Any idea's on what is causing the hesitation and popping?? Thanks guys

ssevy · 04-04-2009, 10:47 AM

It sounds like it is still getting either a fluctuating supply of fuel or air. You mentioned the carb cleaning, etc., but did you check the airbox for a clogged air filter? Also, there are two fuel filters, a small duckbill one where the fuel line attaches to the fuel rail, and the screens in the petcock assembly in the tank. Having sat for so long, I would definitely remove the tank and the petcock for cleaning. These can get pretty nasty, if my bike is any indicator. Lastly, is the tank cap venting properly, and the tipover valve installed correctly? When you remove the cap, you should hear neither a sucking sound or a blowing sound. A pressurized tank means the tipover valve is installed in the wrong hose, and a sucking sound means the cap venting is not working properly. Search for any of these, and you'll find a plethora of info here. Good luck!

IrlMike · 04-04-2009, 11:15 AM

Hi Mark,

I'm wondering if it's the coils maybe or a bit of intermittancy somewhere electrical? I have two spare coils you could try...?

Give me a call for a chat about if you like?

I'm also probably on a spin to Waterford tomorrow if you fancy coming along (& bike is up for it

) ?

Cheers
Mike

markwthunderbird · 04-04-2009, 07:56 PM

I should have mentioned I already cleaned the tank and replaced the fuel line and duckbill filter and put on a new petcock I am realatively confident that the fuel side is sorted out the air filter is clean and both air boxes are clear. It is also running on a remote fuel bottle. I am thinking coils How do i test them to know if they are good or bad?

AKMCDM · 04-04-2009, 08:27 PM

Go back to thread posted on 2-10-08, Jimmyj900 explains one way to test. If you do find that the are faulty look into Nology Coils. I got mine from New Level Motorsports for around $70.00 each & free shipping. 1-866-639-5385.

IrlMike · 04-04-2009, 08:39 PM

lol...wrong Mark, sorry...

Bad coils cause misfiring from idle up to around 3k to 4k rpm, then ok above. Substitution is maybe the best test, but you can try closing up the plug gaps to, say 25 thou, & see if it clears up. The HT voltage reached on the coil secondary is lower for a smaller plug gap & helps to reduce internal shorting. It was a get me home fix that worked for me, tho' it's only temporary.

Mike

cafetbird · 04-05-2009, 12:00 AM

Did you balance the carbs? I notice mine runs much better at idle after a good balance.